18th Century. Wood Carved, Oak Lectern, Depicting an Eagle with Outstretched Wings (Italian).
 
Eagle lecterns are often found in Christian churches where the Bible or other texts rest on the eagle's outstretched wings. The eagle symbolises the Gospel, as it was believed to be the only bird that could fly into the sun and was thus seen as carrying the word of God to all corners of the world.
 
CONDITION:
 
Wear commensurate with age. Slight aged cracking to rear of wings (see photos).